Nat King Cole, born Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919, was an iconic American singer, pianist, and jazz musician. Renowned for his smooth, velvety voice and impeccable phrasing, Cole is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists in the history of popular music.
Growing up in Chicago, Cole’s passion for music emerged at an early age. His unique style blended jazz, swing, and pop, captivating audiences worldwide. Cole’s breakthrough came in the 1940s with hits like “Straighten Up and Fly Right” and “The Christmas Song,” which became timeless classics.
In addition to his remarkable singing talent, Cole was a gifted pianist, and his instrumental prowess often accompanied his vocal performances. He effortlessly transitioned between jazz and pop standards, showcasing his versatility and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
Cole’s career spanned several decades, and he achieved numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He broke racial barriers as one of the first African-American artists to host his own television show, “The Nat King Cole Show,” which aired from 1956 to 1957.
Tragically, Nat King Cole’s life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 45 in 1965. However, his musical legacy continues to resonate, captivating new generations of listeners. His timeless recordings, such as “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa,” ensure that his rich, velvety voice will forever be celebrated as a symbol of elegance and musical excellence.
1. “When I Fall in Love”
This popular Nat King Cole song, which was released in 1956, is a timeless classic that captures the essence of falling in love. The smooth and soulful vocals combined with the romantic lyrics create a heartfelt ballad that truly resonates with listeners. With its iconic melody and nostalgic charm, “When I Fall in Love” remains one of the best-loved songs of all time, solidifying Nat King Cole’s enduring legacy as a musical legend.
As one of the most recognizable voices of the 20th century, Nat King Cole’s contribution to music is immeasurable. His exceptional talent for bridging and blending different genres helped to define an era and inspire countless artists over the years. Among his many hits, “When I Fall in Love” stands out as a testament to his unparalleled vocal ability and timeless appeal. Whether listening to it for the first time or rediscovering it after decades, this beautiful song never fails to strike an emotional chord.
One interesting fact about “When I Fall in Love” is that it has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Doris Day, Andy Williams, and Celine Dion. However, none have quite captured the essence of the original like Nat King Cole himself. From its lush orchestration to its unforgettable chorus, every element of this song feels perfectly crafted to evoke a sense of longing and desire.
If you’re looking for a truly beautiful and heart-warming track to add to your playlist or simply enjoy during quiet moments at home, “When I Fall in Love” is definitely worth checking out. With its universal themes of love and devotion, it’s easy to see why this classic ballad has remained so beloved over the years. Don’t miss out on experiencing the timeless magic of Nat King Cole’s music today!
If Nat King Cole's voice was a warm embrace, 'The Very Thought of You' is the cozy blanket that comes with it.
2. “The Very Thought of You”
This Nat King Cole classic, which many may recognize from its appearance in romantic movie scenes, is a timeless tune that encapsulates the feeling of being completely enamored with someone. Through his smooth and soulful vocals, Cole brings to life the lyrics that express a deep longing for someone whose mere thought can bring about happiness. The song's mellow melody heightens the emotion conveyed by both Cole's voice and the lyrics, making it a favorite amongst fans.
In addition to its well-known romantic nature, “The Very Thought of You” has been covered by numerous artists over the years across a variety of genres. However, none quite capture the essence of the song like Nat King Cole himself. From his clear and emotive delivery of each word to the subtle instrumentation accompanying him, this rendition stands out as one of his best performances.
Fans will appreciate that despite being released over half a century ago, “The Very Thought of You” holds up as a truly timeless piece. Its enduring popularity speaks to not only Cole's talent but also his ability to create music that transcends generations.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate this track and all the others on this top 10 list, consider investing in high-quality headphones or speakers to pick up on every detail and nuance in Nat King Cole's performances.
Listening to 'Stardust' is like being wrapped in a cozy blanket made of smooth jazz and warm vocals, perfect for when you need a break from the chaos of the world.
3. “Stardust”
Nat King Cole's "Stardust" is a timeless classic that features his signature velvet crooning backed by lush orchestration. This rendition captures the melancholic and dreamy essence of Hoagy Carmichael's jazz standard about lost love and rekindled memories. The song's subtle imagery and nostalgic nostalgia make it a perfect choice for romantic occasions and easy-listening sessions.
Moreover, Nat King Cole lends an intimate touch to the melody with his masterful phrasing and emotive delivery. His soulful rendition adds depth and poignancy to the already exquisite lyrics, leaving a lasting impression on listeners worldwide.
"Stardust" remains one of Nat King Cole's most enduring compositions, showcasing his extraordinary talent as a singer-songwriter.
Listeners could transport themselves into a magical world where anything is possible while listening to their favorite tunes from Nat King Cole’s “10 Best Songs Of All Time” playlist, created exclusively for them. This playlist includes other all-time classic songs like #1 “Unforgettable,” #2 “Mona Lisa,” #4 “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire),” #6 “When I Fall in Love,” #8 “Let There Be Love,” #9 “Love Is Here to Stay,” among others.
Nat King Cole's voice could make 'Unforgettable' sound like a forgivable crime.
4. “Unforgettable”
This chart-topper, “Unforgettable”, is one of Nat King Cole's well-known hits. It is a timeless love song that features Nat's velvet voice over melancholic string arrangements. The lyrics are memorable and resonate with anyone who has ever been in love. In the song, Cole reminisces about past love and regrets not being able to forget it.
The beauty of "Unforgettable" is how listeners can relate to its emotional message even decades after its release. Its seamless melody paired with Cole's soothing vocals make for a musical masterpiece that stands the test of time. Even today, it remains an anthem for lovers and heartbroken souls alike.
It's worth mentioning that "Unforgettable" was originally written by Irving Gordon but became popular once Nat King Cole recorded it in 1951. It won him both critical acclaim and commercial success.
For those looking to impress their special someone or express their emotions through music, "Unforgettable" remains an excellent choice. Its universal lyrics make it relatable while its melody continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Listening to 'Smile' is like staring into a well of sadness, but hey, at least Nat King Cole's voice makes it a great view.
5. “Smile”
A standout tune on Nat King Cole's tracklist is a ballad named after an optimistic expression. The “Smile” melody’s timeless lyrics, penned by Charlie Chaplin, became popular during the Great Depression. Cole's performance of this song not only resonated with listeners in challenging times but also uplifted them with its hopeful message. His mellow and soothing voice evokes emotions that can melt away anyone's worries and troubles.
Cole's interpretation of “Smile” may be the most well-known version, but interestingly, it was not the first recording. Judy Garland recorded it for her movie "Modern Times," while Cole’s rendition came out in 1954 on his album, "Nat King Cole Sings For Two In Love". The song later became one of his posthumous hits when it was re-released in 1991. Its relatable message –“when there are clouds in the sky, you’ll get by”- has made it a go-to tune for those seeking comfort with life's ups-and-downs.
A little-known fact is that Nat King Cole initially learned the chords from Chaplin himself as he wanted to express gratitude to him for giving African Americans like him a platform to perform during segregation times in Hollywood films. It's incredible how music unites people regardless of their backgrounds and ethnicity; Chaplin’s gesture gave birth to an unceasing classic loved by fans worldwide.
Move over, Santa Claus – Nat King Cole's 'The Christmas Song' is the true holiday classic that'll warm your heart, whether you're naughty or nice.
6. “The Christmas Song”
One of the most beloved songs of all time, this holiday classic is a standout in the Nat King Cole collection. Its warm and welcoming introduction, with the iconic opening line "Chestnuts roasting on an open fire," immediately transports listeners to a cozy winter evening by the fireplace. The song's nostalgic lyrics and timeless melody evoke sentiments of family, love, and the joy of the season. It's no wonder that “The Christmas Song” has become a staple during the holiday season for generations.
Nat King Cole’s smooth and velvety vocals give life to every lyric, reminding us why he was considered a legend in his time. His flawless phrasings bring an effortless grace to every note he sings, creating a masterpiece that touches hearts all around the world. In “The Christmas Song”, he perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas through his music, making it truly unforgettable.
It's interesting to note that despite its current popularity as a holiday classic, “The Christmas Song” only gained widespread recognition long after its initial release in 1946. Written by Bob Wells and Mel Tormé on one hot summer day in Hollywood, it wasn't until Nat King Cole released his version in 1961 that it became an instant hit.
That being said, over half a century later, Nat King Cole's version still remains one of the most famous renditions of this timeless classic.
(Source: National Public Radio)
If you want to know what falling in love feels like, just listen to 'A Blossom Fell' and let Nat King Cole serenade you with his velvety voice.
7. “A Blossom Fell”
This melancholic masterpiece plucks on heartstrings. Nat King Cole's smooth baritone transports listeners to a vivid memory of love lost in "A Blossom Fell". The lyrics poetically express the fragility of love and how it can wither as easily as a flower. The captivating rhythm and mellow melody make it one of Cole's most memorable songs – one that truly showcases his emotional range.
Cole's delivery perfectly captures the essence of falling out of love. The way he sings lines like "All at once I saw you, silhouetted in the moonlight" is nothing short of magical. He takes listeners on an emotional journey, creating a sense of empathy that lingers long after the final note.
Listeners often praise Cole for his ability to tug at their emotions, and "A Blossom Fell" does just that. It's a testament to his skill as both a singer and performer.
Fun fact: In 1955, "A Blossom Fell" won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
Listening to "Nature Boy" is like being hugged by a tree, but in a non-creepy way.
8. “Nature Boy”
This track, 'Nature Boy', stands out among the 10 best Nat King Cole songs of all time. It was released in 1948 and was written by eden ahbez. The song's melodic structure and poetic lyrics offer clear insight into the human condition while also being wonderfully contemplative. This surreal song has been covered by nearly 20 artists over the years, including David Bowie and Lady Gaga, but Cole's depiction of it remains both mesmerizing and transcendent.
Nat King Cole sings about love like it's his full-time job, and 'L-O-V-E' is his biggest promotion yet.
9. “L-O-V-E”
This Nat King Cole classic, known as "L-O-V-E", is a silky smooth tune with an infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song's simplistic yet powerful message about the joys of love has made it a timeless hit that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. From Cole's buttery vocals to the jazzy instrumentals, every aspect of this song exudes sophistication and romance. It's no wonder why "L-O-V-E" remains one of the best-loved songs in Nat King Cole's extensive discography.
For those unfamiliar with the song, "L-O-V-E" was released in 1965 as a single from Cole's album of the same name. The song written by Milt Gabler and originally sung by his daughter Susan Bennett is rooted in swing jazz but also features elements from other genres such as pop and R&B. The catchy chorus spells out the word "love" letter by letter, making for a fun singalong moment that never gets old.
One unique aspect of "L-O-V-E" is its use in popular media throughout the years. The song has appeared in countless films and television shows, including classics like Love Actually and Sex and the City. Additionally, contemporary artists such as Michael Buble have covered the tune, further cementing its place in music history.
Pro tip: To fully appreciate Nat King Cole's rendition of "L-O-V-E", listen to it on vinyl for an authentic audio experience. Nat King Cole's voice is so smooth, it could convince you to pretend you actually have a love life.
10. “Pretend”
This particular Nat King Cole classic is a beautiful depiction of love and longing that is sure to tug on the listener's heartstrings. The song, which showcases Cole's soothing voice, tells the tale of a lover who pretends that their beloved is still with them despite being apart. With its subtle instrumentals and meaningful lyrics, Pretend has remained an audience favorite since its release in 1952.
Not only did Pretend top the charts upon its release, but it also paved the way for several other hits from Cole. This song exhibits his unique ability to convey complex emotions through his music effortlessly. Today, Pretend stands as a symbol of Cole's impact on jazz and pop culture.
Listeners might be interested to know that even though Pretend was a significant commercial success for Cole in the early 1950s, it was first recorded years before. The song was written by Lew Douglas, Frank LaVere and Cliff Parman in 1946 for popular radio host Red Foley. It wasn't until six years later that Nat King Cole produced his version of the song which would go on to become one of his signature hits.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
